Product Overview The Barco APX AuroMax is a spatial audio processor that renders immersive, multichannel cinema sound for auditoriums and large venues. It decodes immersive audio per the SMPTE Immersive Audio Bitstream (IAB) standard and combines three-layer sound zones with a mix of channel-based and object-based audio. The processor drives a wide range of speaker layouts, from classic 5.1 and 7.1 up to 26.1, to place sound objects accurately throughout the room. It is a rack-mounted audio processor for cinema sound systems, not a projector or media server on its own. Product Description The APX AuroMax sits at the heart of a Barco immersive audio installation, taking object-based and channel-based audio and rendering it across the room's speaker zones for a realistic, enveloping experience. As the gallery images show, it is a 2 RU, 19-inch rack unit with extensive analog and digital I/O, including AES/EBU digital inputs, analog inputs, and up to 32 channels of analog or digital audio output for feeding amplifier racks. It includes an integrated decoder for immersive audio playback (SMPTE ST2098-2) and is compatible with the Barco ICMP media server, so it fits cleanly into a Barco digital cinema chain. Because it needs fewer amplifier channels and lower-powered speakers than some alternative object-based systems, it can be installed in new or existing theaters at lower cost. It pairs with Barco's cinema projection and media-server ecosystem; explore the broader Barco cinema and AV range at Creation Networks to specify a complete auditorium. Integrators building immersive rooms can review related Barco audio and cinema gear alongside this processor. Control is available locally, via TMS commands, or through the APX client. Key Features Immersive spatial rendering — Renders channel-based and object-based audio across three-layer sound zones for realistic placement. SMPTE IAB compliant — Integrated decoder for immersive audio playback per SMPTE ST2098-2. Flexible speaker layouts — Supports configurations from 5.1 and 7.1 up to 26.1 regardless of room size. High channel count I/O — Up to 32 channels of analog (APX) or digital AES/EBU (APX-D) audio output. ICMP compatibility — Works with the Barco ICMP media server within a digital cinema chain. Cost-efficient install — Needs fewer amplifier channels and lower-powered speakers, suiting new or existing theaters. Multiple control paths — Local control, TMS commands, and the APX client, with HI, VI-N, and monitor outputs. Compact rack format — 2 RU, 19-inch chassis at 5.44 kg / 12 lbs for standard equipment racks. Typical Applications Cinema — Immersive sound rendering for commercial movie theaters and screening rooms. Auditorium — Large-format auditoriums delivering object-based immersive audio. Immersive audio venue — Premium large-venue rooms requiring multichannel spatial sound. Technical Specifications Specification Detail Functionality Integrated decoder for immersive audio playback (SMPTE ST2098-2); compatible with Barco ICMP media server Speaker configurations 5.1, 7.1, up to 26.1 and configurations in between Control Local control, TMS commands, APX client Network 2x RJ-45 Ethernet (remote control, object-based audio data input) Audio inputs AES/EBU (2x RJ-45, 16 mono channels); analog balanced DB25 ch. 1-8; 2x RCA unbalanced stereo; XLR/TRS combo balanced mono Audio output APX: 32-channel analog (4x DB25, servo balanced, 300 mV RMS @ -20 dB FS); APX-D: 32-channel digital AES/EBU (2x DB25); HI, VI-N, MON outputs Housing 19 in / 2 RU Dimensions (W x H x D) 483 x 89 x 370 mm / 19 x 3.5 x 14.6 in (without connectors) Weight 5.44 kg / 12 lbs Power 100-240 VAC / 50-60 Hz; 50 W consumption Operating temperature 0 - 40 C / 32 - 104 F Certifications CB, CE, UL / CSA Warranty 24 months Frequently Asked Questions What is the APX AuroMax? It is a spatial audio processor that renders immersive, multichannel cinema sound, combining channel-based and object-based audio across three-layer sound zones. What audio standard does it support? It includes an integrated decoder for immersive audio playback compliant with the SMPTE Immersive Audio Bitstream standard (SMPTE ST2098-2). How many speakers can it drive? It supports a wide range of layouts from classic 5.1 and 7.1 up to 26.1, with up to 32 channels of analog or digital output. Does it work with Barco media servers? Yes. It is compatible with the Barco ICMP media server and integrates into a Barco digital cinema chain via TMS and the APX client. Can it be installed in an existing theater? Yes. It is designed for both new and existing auditoriums and can lower install cost by requiring fewer amplifier channels and lower-powered speakers. What warranty applies? The APX AuroMax carries a 24-month warranty.
